History:

is believed to be more than 1000 years old. It is an archaeological monument protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). This is a much-visited Siva temple in the Koraput district. It is situated at the foot of the Titijore Hill in the village of Gupteswar. This temple was described in the 13th-century Madalapanji, an Odia chronicle of Jagannatha of Puri. It is believed that Jagannatha himself had visited the temple for worship. The temple was destroyed long back and the present structure was renovated in 1880. The archaeological remains at this site suggest that the site had been occupied from Gupta Period (4th-5th century CE). The two entrances of the temple are featured with intricately carved figures of various gods and goddesses. The central figures of Siva and Parvati form the main shrine of the temple. Inside the temple is an archaeological museum, which showcases the ancient artifacts collected from the site. It is one of the best temple in Odisha which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Gupteswar Temple is located in Rayagada, Odisha, India. 2. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of oldest temples in the region. 3. The temple's origin dates back to the 7th century and is said to have been built by the famous ruler of the Kalinga dynasty, Raja Raja Suryavarman. 4. The temple is situated atop a hill and contains an ancient Shiva Lingam and another small temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. 5. Devotees believe that the water spring beneath the temple is known for its miraculous powers. 6. Every year, a number of festivals are celebrated at the temple, such as the Siva Ratri, The Phalguna Utsav, and the Ram Navami festival. 7. There is also an interesting legend associated with the temple, which states that two local boys, Gupteswar and Dhruveswar, had spent a great deal of their time in the nearby village and had become very devoted to worshipping Shiva. One day, they decided to visit the nearby Gupteswar Temple, where they prayed to Lord Shiva and made a wish. Lord Shiva was so pleased by their devotion that he granted them their wish—and that’s how the temple was named. Here are some facts about the Odisha temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Odisha

Worship Method:

The worship method of Gupteswar Temple is known as puja and it is quite unique compared with other temples in Rayagada. Puja at this temple is performed according to a strict set of rules and rituals. Generally, puja includes aarti, pooja or a special offering of food to the Lord as well as reciting prayers. After the pooja, devotees offer flowers, marigold petals, and fruits to the deity. The main rituals of puja may differ from region to region, but the basic rituals remain the same. At Gupteswar, devotees prepare special badges of red thread and strings of yellow flowers which they offer during the puja. The priest of the temple usually leads these rituals and is called a 'purohit'. It is believed that performing puja at this temple can grant peace and prosperity. This most visited temple in Odisha

Opening Timing:

Gupteswar Temple is open 24 hours throughout the year. The temple also has a daily Pooja ritual which is conducted in the morning and evening. top temples in Odisha

How to reach:

The best way to reach Gupteswar Temple in Rayagada in Odisha is by road. The temple is located around 46 km from Rayagada Town and it takes roughly 1.5 hours to reach the destination. You can take a bus/taxi from Rayagada Town or from Bissamcuttack, which is around 3 km away from Rayagada to reach the temple. famous temples in Odisha